Method and apparatus for providing navigation guidance via proximate devices

ABSTRACT

An approach is provided for connecting at least one first device with at least one second device proximate to at least one destination for navigation guidance. The approach involves determining at least one destination associated with at least one first device, at least one first user associated with the at least one first device, or a combination thereof. The approach also involves determining at least one second device, at least one second user associated with the at least one second device, or a combination thereof within at least one proximity threshold of the at least one destination. The approach further involves causing, at least in part, a transmission of at least one navigation assistance request from the at least one first device, that least one first user, or a combination thereof to the at least one second device, the at least one second user, or a combination thereof, wherein the at least one navigation assistance request seeks, at least in part, navigation guidance information related to the at least one destination, at least one point of interest associated with the at least one destination, or a combination thereof from the at least one second device, the at least one second user, or a combination thereof.

BACKGROUND

Service providers and device manufacturers (e.g., wireless, cellular,etc.) are continually challenged to deliver value and convenience toconsumers by, for example, providing compelling network services. Onearea of interest is in providing local navigation support to users byconnecting proximate devices. For example, any obstruction (e.g.,on-going constructions) in the line-of-sight makes it difficult forusers to locate their destination despite assistance from navigation andmapping services. Further, the navigation and mapping services may beobsolete and may not accurately represent latest developments in ageographic area (e.g., new lanes, road constructions, etc.).Accordingly, service providers and device manufacturers face significanttechnical challenges in assisting users in visualizing the environmentnearby the destination via proximate devices.

SOME EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

Therefore, there is a need for an approach for connecting at least onefirst device with at least one second device proximate to at least onedestination for navigation guidance.

According to one embodiment, a method comprises determining at least onedestination associated with at least one first device, at least onefirst user associated with the at least one first device, or acombination thereof. The method also comprises determining at least onesecond device, at least one second user associated with the at least onesecond device, or a combination thereof within at least one proximitythreshold of the at least one destination. The method further comprisescausing, at least in part, a transmission of at least one navigationassistance request from the at least one first device, that least onefirst user, or a combination thereof to the at least one second device,the at least one second user, or a combination thereof, wherein the atleast one navigation assistance request seeks, at least in part,navigation guidance information related to the at least one destination,at least one point of interest associated with the at least onedestination, or a combination thereof from the at least one seconddevice, the at least one second user, or a combination thereof.

According to another embodiment, an apparatus comprises at least oneprocessor, and at least one memory including computer program code forone or more computer programs, the at least one memory and the computerprogram code configured to, with the at least one processor, cause, atleast in part, the apparatus to determine at least one destinationassociated with at least one first device, at least one first userassociated with the at least one first device, or a combination thereof.The apparatus is also caused to determine at least one second device, atleast one second user associated with the at least one second device, ora combination thereof within at least one proximity threshold of the atleast one destination. The apparatus is further caused to cause, atleast in part, a transmission of at least one navigation assistancerequest from the at least one first device, that least one first user,or a combination thereof to the at least one second device, the at leastone second user, or a combination thereof, wherein the at least onenavigation assistance request seeks, at least in part, navigationguidance information related to the at least one destination, at leastone point of interest associated with the at least one destination, or acombination thereof from the at least one second device, the at leastone second user, or a combination thereof.

According to another embodiment, a computer-readable storage mediumcarries one or more sequences of one or more instructions which, whenexecuted by one or more processors, cause, at least in part, anapparatus to determine at least one destination associated with at leastone first device, at least one first user associated with the at leastone first device, or a combination thereof. The apparatus is also causedto determine at least one second device, at least one second userassociated with the at least one second device, or a combination thereofwithin at least one proximity threshold of the at least one destination.The apparatus is further caused to cause, at least in part, atransmission of at least one navigation assistance request from the atleast one first device, that least one first user, or a combinationthereof to the at least one second device, the at least one second user,or a combination thereof, wherein the at least one navigation assistancerequest seeks, at least in part, navigation guidance information relatedto the at least one destination, at least one point of interestassociated with the at least one destination, or a combination thereoffrom the at least one second device, the at least one second user, or acombination thereof.

According to another embodiment, an apparatus comprises means fordetermining at least one destination associated with at least one firstdevice, at least one first user associated with the at least one firstdevice, or a combination thereof. The apparatus also comprises means fordetermining at least one second device, at least one second userassociated with the at least one second device, or a combination thereofwithin at least one proximity threshold of the at least one destination.The apparatus further comprises means for causing, at least in part, atransmission of at least one navigation assistance request from the atleast one first device, that least one first user, or a combinationthereof to the at least one second device, the at least one second user,or a combination thereof, wherein the at least one navigation assistancerequest seeks, at least in part, navigation guidance information relatedto the at least one destination, at least one point of interestassociated with the at least one destination, or a combination thereoffrom the at least one second device, the at least one second user, or acombination thereof.

In addition, for various example embodiments of the invention, thefollowing is applicable: a method comprising facilitating a processingof and/or processing (1) data and/or (2) information and/or (3) at leastone signal, the (1) data and/or (2) information and/or (3) at least onesignal based, at least in part, on (or derived at least in part from)any one or any combination of methods (or processes) disclosed in thisapplication as relevant to any embodiment of the invention.

For various example embodiments of the invention, the following is alsoapplicable: a method comprising facilitating access to at least oneinterface configured to allow access to at least one service, the atleast one service configured to perform any one or any combination ofnetwork or service provider methods (or processes) disclosed in thisapplication.

For various example embodiments of the invention, the following is alsoapplicable: a method comprising facilitating creating and/orfacilitating modifying (1) at least one device user interface elementand/or (2) at least one device user interface functionality, the (1) atleast one device user interface element and/or (2) at least one deviceuser interface functionality based, at least in part, on data and/orinformation resulting from one or any combination of methods orprocesses disclosed in this application as relevant to any embodiment ofthe invention, and/or at least one signal resulting from one or anycombination of methods (or processes) disclosed in this application asrelevant to any embodiment of the invention.

For various example embodiments of the invention, the following is alsoapplicable: a method comprising creating and/or modifying (1) at leastone device user interface element and/or (2) at least one device userinterface functionality, the (1) at least one device user interfaceelement and/or (2) at least one device user interface functionalitybased at least in part on data and/or information resulting from one orany combination of methods (or processes) disclosed in this applicationas relevant to any embodiment of the invention, and/or at least onesignal resulting from one or any combination of methods (or processes)disclosed in this application as relevant to any embodiment of theinvention.

In various example embodiments, the methods (or processes) can beaccomplished on the service provider side or on the mobile device sideor in any shared way between service provider and mobile device withactions being performed on both sides.

For various example embodiments, the following is applicable: Anapparatus comprising means for performing the method of any oforiginally filed claims 1-10, 21-30, and 46-48.

Still other aspects, features, and advantages of the invention arereadily apparent from the following detailed description, simply byillustrating a number of particular embodiments and implementations,including the best mode contemplated for carrying out the invention. Theinvention is also capable of other and different embodiments, and itsseveral details can be modified in various obvious respects, all withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, thedrawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature,and not as restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The embodiments of the invention are illustrated by way of example, andnot by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings:

FIG. 1 is a diagram of a system capable of connecting at least one firstdevice with at least one second device proximate to at least onedestination for navigation guidance, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a diagram of the geographic database 111 of system 100,according to exemplary embodiments;

FIG. 3 is a diagram of the components of the configuration platform 109,according to one embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a process for transmission of navigationrequest to one or more devices proximate to a destination for navigationguidance, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a process for selecting at least one deviceand/or at least one user for navigation guidance from the one or moreproximate devices and/or users based on selection measures, according toone embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a process for designating at least one deviceand/or at least one user as a navigation guide, according to oneembodiment;

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a process for determining distance thresholdand line-of sight between one or more devices, according to oneembodiment;

FIG. 8 represents a scenario wherein UE 101 associated with at least onedriver and/or at least one vehicle is connected with the UE 101 of thenearby users (e.g., pedestrians) for navigational support, according toone example embodiment;

FIG. 9 is a user interface diagram that represents a scenario whereinlocal navigation assistance is provided via at least one UE 101 of auser proximate to a destination, according to one example embodiment;

FIG. 10 represents a scenario wherein notifications are sent to the mostrelevant users from a group of users, according to one exampleembodiment;

FIG. 11 is a diagram of hardware that can be used to implement anembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 12 is a diagram of a chip set that can be used to implement anembodiment of the invention; and

FIG. 13 is a diagram of a mobile terminal (e.g., handset) that can beused to implement an embodiment of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SOME EMBODIMENTS

Examples of a method, apparatus, and computer program for connecting atleast one first device with at least one second device proximate to atleast one destination for navigation guidance are disclosed. In thefollowing description, for the purposes of explanation, numerousspecific details are set forth in order to provide a thoroughunderstanding of the embodiments of the invention. It is apparent,however, to one skilled in the art that the embodiments of the inventionmay be practiced without these specific details or with an equivalentarrangement. In other instances, well-known structures and devices areshown in block diagram form in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuringthe embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 1 is a diagram of a system capable of connecting at least one firstdevice with at least one second device proximate to at least onedestination for navigation guidance, according to one embodiment. Themapping and navigation services rely upon drivers to manually inputtheir destination before directing a vehicle towards a destination.Though a calculated route is displayed, a driver may still miss thedestination if he/she is unfamiliar with the area nearby thedestination. Further, the mapping and navigation services may notaccurately represent latest road changes or developments. This resultsin traffic jams as users are confused regarding the route to theirdestination. Hence, drivers require support in physically finding theirdestination and recommendations on proper parking space while travelingthrough unfamiliar areas.

To address this problem, a system 100 of FIG. 1 introduces thecapability wherein at least one user approaching at least onedestination may get support from other users (e.g., pedestrians) locatednext to the destination. In one scenario, the system 100 provides localnavigational support by connecting at least one driver to at least onepedestrian proximate to at least one destination. In another scenario,the system 100 provides local navigational support by connecting atleast one pedestrian to at least one other pedestrian proximate to atleast one destination. In a further scenario, the system 100 provideslocal navigational support by connecting at least one vehicle with atleast one other vehicle proximate to at least one destination. Since,local guides can provide dynamic and accurate information (e.g., routetowards a destination, main entrance towards a destination, availabilityof parking spaces, area to avoid when arriving or leaving, and any otherrelevant information regarding guidance, etc.) based, at least in part,on their line-of-sight, the drivers have a better sense of directions.

As shown in FIG. 1, the system 100 comprises user equipment (UE) 101a-101 n (collectively referred to as UE 101) that may include or beassociated with applications 103 a-103 n (collectively referred to asapplications 103) and sensors 105 a-105 n (collectively referred to assensors 105). In one embodiment, the UE 101 has connectivity to aconfiguration platform 109 via the communication network 107. In oneembodiment, the configuration platform 109 performs one or morefunctions associated with connecting at least one first device with atleast one second device proximate to at least one destination fornavigation guidance.

By way of example, the UE 101 is any type of mobile terminal, fixedterminal, or portable terminal including a mobile handset, station,unit, device, multimedia computer, multimedia tablet, Internet node,communicator, desktop computer, laptop computer, notebook computer,netbook computer, tablet computer, personal communication system (PCS)device, personal navigation device, personal digital assistants (PDAs),audio/video player, digital camera/camcorder, positioning device,fitness device, television receiver, radio broadcast receiver,electronic book device, game device, or any combination thereof,including the accessories and peripherals of these devices, or anycombination thereof. It is also contemplated that the UE 101 can supportany type of interface to the user (such as “wearable” circuitry, etc.).In one embodiment, the UE 101 may be a vehicle (e.g., autonomousvehicles, highly-assisted vehicles (HAD), a mobile device (e.g., phone),and/or a combination of the two. In one embodiment, the UE 101 maybeembedded in the at least one vehicle.

By way of example, the applications 103 may be any type of applicationthat is executable at the UE 101, such as mapping application,location-based service applications, navigation applications, contentprovisioning services, camera/imaging application, media playerapplications, social networking applications, calendar applications,search applications, vehicle control applications, and the like, or anycombination thereof. In one embodiment, one of the applications 103 atthe UE 101 may act as a client for the configuration platform 109 andperform one or more functions associated with the functions of theconfiguration platform 109 by interacting with the configurationplatform 109 over the communication network 107. In one scenario,applications 103 may interface with the sensors 105 and/or the servicesplatform 113 via the communication network 107 for connecting at leastone first device with at least one second device proximate to at leastone destination for navigation guidance.

By way of example, the sensors 105 may be any type of sensor. In certainembodiments, the sensors 105 may include, for example, a globalpositioning sensor for gathering location data (e.g., GPS), a networkdetection sensor for detecting wireless signals or receivers fordifferent short-range communications (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Li-Fi,near field communication (NFC) etc.), temporal information sensors, acamera/imaging sensor for gathering image data (e.g., the camera sensorsmay automatically capture obstruction for analysis), an audio recorderfor gathering audio data, acceleration sensor (e.g., an accelerometercan measure acceleration and can be used to determine orientation of thevehicle, and the like. In a further example embodiment, sensors aboutthe perimeter of the vehicle may detect the relative distance of thevehicle from lane or roadways, the presence of other vehicles,pedestrians, traffic lights, and any other objects, or a combinationthereof. In one example embodiment, the UE 101 may include GPS receiversto obtain geographic coordinates from satellites 119 for determiningcurrent location and time associated with the UE 101 and/or a vehicle.Further, the location can be determined by a triangulation system suchas A-GPS, Cell of Origin, or other location extrapolation technologies.

The communication network 107 of system 100 includes one or morenetworks such as a data network, a wireless network, a telephonynetwork, or any combination thereof. It is contemplated that the datanetwork may be any local area network (LAN), metropolitan area network(MAN), wide area network (WAN), a public data network (e.g., theInternet), short range wireless network, or any other suitablepacket-switched network, such as a commercially owned, proprietarypacket-switched network, e.g., a proprietary cable or fiber-opticnetwork, and the like, or any combination thereof. In addition, thewireless network may be, for example, a cellular network and may employvarious technologies including enhanced data rates for global evolution(EDGE), general packet radio service (GPRS), global system for mobilecommunications (GSM), Internet protocol multimedia subsystem (IMS),universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS), etc., as well as anyother suitable wireless medium, e.g., worldwide interoperability formicrowave access (WiMAX), Long Term Evolution (LTE) networks, codedivision multiple access (CDMA), wideband code division multiple access(WCDMA), wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi), wireless LAN (WLAN), Bluetooth®,Internet Protocol (IP) data casting, satellite, mobile ad-hoc network(MANET), and the like, or any combination thereof. In one exampleembodiment,

In one embodiment, the configuration platform 109 may be a platform withmultiple interconnected components. The configuration platform 109 mayinclude multiple servers, intelligent networking devices, computingdevices, components and corresponding software for connecting at leastone first device with at least one second device proximate to at leastone destination for navigation guidance. In addition, it is noted thatthe configuration platform 109 may be a separate entity of the system100, a part of the one or more services 115 a-115 n (collectivelyreferred to as services 115) of the services platform 113, or includedwithin the UE 101 (e.g., as part of the applications 103).

In one embodiment, the configuration platform 109 may determine at leastone destination associated with at least one request. Then, theconfiguration platform 109 may determine one or more devices and/orusers within certain proximity threshold of the at least onedestination. Subsequently, the configuration platform 109 may cause atransmission of navigation assistance request to the determinedproximate devices and/or users. In one example embodiment, driver Tomapproaches nearby his destination, however proximate areas around thedestination is under construction, and this latest development is notreflected by his mapping and navigation services. Since the constructionis obstructing Tom's line-of-sight, he may activate local support (i.e.,a feature of being connected with other users nearby the destination).Then, the configuration platform 109 may search for users nearby thedestination. The configuration platform 109 may send the request (e.g.,a specific request for route towards a specific destination and aparking space) to one or more nearby users based on a selectioncriterion. One of the selected user Sam who happens to be in front ofthe destination agrees to support Tom for a given time. Subsequently,the configuration platform 109 may cause an exchange of informationbetween Tom and Sam. For example, the UE 101 of Sam may receive picturesof Tom's car alongside other identification information (e.g., modelnumber, color, license plate, etc.). Similarly, the UE 101 of Tom mayreceive Sam's position information, his picture and possibly onerecognizable item he is wearing/carrying. In one scenario, Tom mayidentify Sam, and may be guided by Sam via gestures and/or any otherform of notifications towards the destination. In another scenario, Sammay highlight the route and/or its details, specify and/or propose a newdestination or one or more route segments (e.g., route that Tom shouldchoose and route that Tom should avoid) towards the destination in hisUE 101, whereupon the configuration platform 109 may transmit thisinformation to UE 101 of Tom.

In one embodiment, the configuration platform 109 may automaticallyextract navigation information stored in the UE 101 of at least one user(e.g., a proximate user had previously assisted a driver to the similardestination), and may transmit the navigation guidance information to auser driving towards a destination. Such automated process may beactivated based, at least in part, on vehicle speed level, userbehavioral patterns, or a combination thereof. In a further embodiment,the configuration platform 109 may extract static information (e.g.,vehicle number, vehicle color, etc.) directly from the geographicdatabase 111 and/or UE 101.

In one embodiment, the geographic database 111 may store routinginformation to at least one destination, identification information forone or more users and/or one or more vehicles, speed information for oneor more vehicles, speed limit for one or more road links, routeinformation towards at least one destination, or a combination thereof.The information may be any multiple types of information that canprovide means for aiding in the content provisioning and sharingprocess.

The services platform 113 may include any type of service. By way ofexample, the services platform 113 may include mapping services,navigation services, travel planning services, notification services,social networking services, content (e.g., audio, video, images, etc.)provisioning services, application services, storage services,contextual information determination services, location based services,information (e.g., weather, news, etc.) based services, etc. In oneembodiment, the services platform 113 may interact with the UE 101, theconfiguration platform 109 and the content provider 117 to supplement oraid in the processing of the content information.

By way of example, the services 115 may be an online service thatreflects interests and/or activities of users. The services 115 allowusers to share location information, activities information (e.g.,travel plans, speed information), contextual information, historicaluser information (e.g., travel history) and interests within theirindividual networks, and provides for data portability. The services 115may additionally assist in providing the configuration platform 109 withprofile information (e.g., pictures, any other personal information) onat least one user.

The content providers 117 a-117 n (collectively referred to as contentprovider 117) may provide content to the UE 101, the configurationplatform 109, and the services 115 of the services platform 113. Thecontent provided may be any type of content, such as textual content,audio content, video content, image content, etc. In one embodiment, thecontent provider 117 may provide content that may supplement content ofthe applications 103, the sensors 105, or a combination thereof. In onescenario, the content provider 117 may provide content that may aid inthe processing of location information for one or more vehicles and/orone or more users. In another scenario, the content provider 117 mayprovide content that may aid in the processing of identificationinformation for one or more vehicles and/or one or more users. In oneembodiment, the content provider 117 may also store content associatedwith the UE 101, the configuration platform 109, and the services 115 ofthe services platform 113. In another embodiment, the content provider117 may manage access to a central repository of data, and offer aconsistent, standard interface to data, such as, a repository oflocation information, identification information, navigationinformation, other traffic information, etc. Any known or stilldeveloping methods, techniques or processes for retrieving and/oraccessing location information, identification information, navigationinformation, other traffic information, etc. from one or more sourcesmay be employed by the configuration platform 109.

By way of example, the UE 101, the configuration platform 109, theservices platform 113, and the content provider 117 communicate witheach other and other components of the communication network 107 usingwell known, new or still developing protocols. In this context, aprotocol includes a set of rules defining how the network nodes withinthe communication network 107 interact with each other based oninformation sent over the communication links. The protocols areeffective at different layers of operation within each node, fromgenerating and receiving physical signals of various types, to selectinga link for transferring those signals, to the format of informationindicated by those signals, to identifying which software applicationexecuting on a computer system sends or receives the information. Theconceptually different layers of protocols for exchanging informationover a network are described in the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI)Reference Model. In another embodiment, the configuration platform 109,the services platform 113, and/or the content provider 117 can becombined in a same entity.

Communications between the network nodes are typically effected byexchanging discrete packets of data. Each packet typically comprises (1)header information associated with a particular protocol, and (2)payload information that follows the header information and containsinformation that may be processed independently of that particularprotocol. In some protocols, the packet includes (3) trailer informationfollowing the payload and indicating the end of the payload information.The header includes information such as the source of the packet, itsdestination, the length of the payload, and other properties used by theprotocol. Often, the data in the payload for the particular protocolincludes a header and payload for a different protocol associated with adifferent, higher layer of the OSI Reference Model. The header for aparticular protocol typically indicates a type for the next protocolcontained in its payload. The higher layer protocol is said to beencapsulated in the lower layer protocol. The headers included in apacket traversing multiple heterogeneous networks, such as the Internet,typically include a physical (layer 1) header, a data-link (layer 2)header, an internetwork (layer 3) header and a transport (layer 4)header, and various application (layer 5, layer 6 and layer 7) headersas defined by the OSI Reference Model.

FIG. 2 is a diagram of the geographic database 111 of system 100,according to exemplary embodiments. In the exemplary embodiments, POIsand map generated POIs data can be stored, associated with, and/orlinked to the geographic database 111 or data thereof. In oneembodiment, the geographic database 111 includes geographic data 201used for (or configured to be compiled to be used for) mapping and/ornavigation-related services, such as for personalized routedetermination, according to exemplary embodiments. For example, thegeographic database 111 includes node data records 203, road segment orlink data records 205, POI data records 207, radio generated POI records209, and other data records 211, for example. More, fewer or differentdata records can be provided. In one embodiment, the other data records211 include cartographic (“carto”) data records, routing data, andmaneuver data. One or more portions, components, areas, layers,features, text, and/or symbols of the POI or event data can be storedin, linked to, and/or associated with one or more of these data records.For example, one or more portions of the POI, event data, or recordedroute information can be matched with respective map or geographicrecords via position or GPS data associations (such as using known orfuture map matching or geo-coding techniques), for example.

In exemplary embodiments, the road segment data records 205 are links orsegments representing roads, streets, or paths, as can be used in thecalculated route or recorded route information for determination of oneor more personalized routes, according to exemplary embodiments. Thenode data records 203 are end points corresponding to the respectivelinks or segments of the road segment data records 205. The road linkdata records 205 and the node data records 203 represent a road network,such as used by vehicles, cars, and/or other entities. Alternatively,the geographic database 111 can contain path segment and node datarecords or other data that represent pedestrian paths or areas inaddition to or instead of the vehicle road record data, for example.

The road/link segments and nodes can be associated with attributes, suchas geographic coordinates, street names, address ranges, speed limits,turn restrictions at intersections, and other navigation relatedattributes, as well as POIs, such as gasoline stations, hotels,restaurants, museums, stadiums, offices, automobile dealerships, autorepair shops, buildings, stores, parks, etc. The geographic database 111can include data about the POIs and their respective locations in thePOI data records 207. The geographic database 111 can also include dataabout places, such as cities, towns, or other communities, and othergeographic features, such as bodies of water, mountain ranges, etc. Suchplace or feature data can be part of the POI data records 207 or can beassociated with POIs or POI data records 207 (such as a data point usedfor displaying or representing a position of a city). In addition, thegeographic database 111 can include data from radio advertisementsassociated with the POI data records 207 and their respective locationsin the radio generated POI records 209. By way of example, a street isdetermined from the user interaction with the UE 101 and the contentinformation associated with UE 101, according to the various embodimentsdescribed herein.

The geographic database 111 can be maintained by the content provider inassociation with the services platform 113 (e.g., a map developer). Themap developer can collect geographic data to generate and enhance thegeographic database 111. There can be different ways used by the mapdeveloper to collect data. These ways can include obtaining data fromother sources, such as municipalities or respective geographicauthorities. In addition, the map developer can employ field personnelto travel by vehicle along roads throughout the geographic region toobserve features and/or record information about them, for example.Also, remote sensing, such as aerial or satellite photography, can beused.

The geographic database 111 can be a master geographic database storedin a format that facilitates updating, maintenance, and development. Forexample, the master geographic database 111 or data in the mastergeographic database 111 can be in an Oracle spatial format or otherspatial format, such as for development or production purposes. TheOracle spatial format or development/production database can be compiledinto a delivery format, such as a geographic data files (GDF) format.The data in the production and/or delivery formats can be compiled orfurther compiled to form geographic database products or databases,which can be used in end user navigation devices or systems.

For example, geographic data is compiled (such as into a platformspecification format (PSF) format) to organize and/or configure the datafor performing navigation-related functions and/or services, such asroute calculation, route guidance, map display, speed calculation,distance and travel time functions, and other functions, by a navigationdevice, such as by a UE 101, for example. The navigation-relatedfunctions can correspond to vehicle navigation, pedestrian navigation,or other types of navigation. The compilation to produce the end userdatabases can be performed by a party or entity separate from the mapdeveloper. For example, a customer of the map developer, such as anavigation device developer or other end user device developer, canperform compilation on a received geographic database in a deliveryformat to produce one or more compiled navigation databases.

As mentioned above, the geographic database 111 can be a mastergeographic database, but in alternate embodiments, the geographicdatabase 111 can represent a compiled navigation database that can beused in or with end user devices (e.g., UE 101) to providednavigation-related functions. For example, the geographic database 111can be used with the end user device UE 101 to provide an end user withnavigation features. In such a case, the geographic database 111 can bedownloaded or stored on the end user device UE 101, such as inapplications 103, or the end user device UE 101 can access thegeographic database 111 through a wireless or wired connection (such asvia a server and/or the communication network 107), for example.

In one embodiment, the end user device or UE 101 can be an in-vehiclenavigation system, a personal navigation device (PND), a portablenavigation device, a cellular telephone, a mobile phone, a personaldigital assistant (PDA), a watch, a camera, a computer, and/or otherdevice that can perform navigation-related functions, such as digitalrouting and map display. In one embodiment, the navigation device UE 101can be a cellular telephone. An end user can use the device UE 101 fornavigation functions such as guidance and map display, for example, andfor determination of route information to at least one destination,according to exemplary embodiments.

FIG. 3 is a diagram of the components of the configuration platform 109,according to one embodiment. By way of example, the configurationplatform 109 includes one or more components for connecting at least onefirst device with at least one second device proximate to at least onedestination for navigation guidance. It is contemplated that thefunctions of these components may be combined in one or more componentsor performed by other components of equivalent functionality. In thisembodiment, the configuration platform 109 includes a detection module301, a selection module 303, a notification module 305, a communicationmodule 307 and a presentation module 309.

In one embodiment, the detection module 301 may detect at least one UE101 associated with at least one pedestrian, at least one vehicle, or acombination thereof nearby the at least one destination associated withat least one request. Subsequently, the detection module 301 maycalculate location information (e.g., proximity information, positioninformation), relevancy information, or a combination thereof for the atleast one pedestrian, the at least one vehicle, or a combinationthereof. In another embodiment, the detection module 301 may also detecta gesture-based input, for example, pre-stored action patterns ofraising a hand, pointing of a UE 101 towards a particular direction, inaddition to the relative position information. In a further embodiment,the detection module 301 may detect speed level of at least one vehicle,driving patterns of at least one user (e.g., user head movements, etc.),or a combination thereof.

In one embodiment, the selection module 303 may select at least one UE101 for navigation guidance based, at least in part, on the locationinformation, the relevance information, or a combination thereofreceived from the detection module 301. In one scenario, the selectionmodule 303 may select at least one user based on the user's familiaritywith the area. In another scenario, the selection module 303 may selectat least one user based on the number of navigational assistanceprovided to other users. In a further scenario, the selection module 303may select at least one user based on unobstructed line-of-sight towardsat least one destination.

In one embodiment, the notification module 305 may provide routerecommendations (e.g., visual notification, audio notification, gesturenotification, etc.) towards at least one destination in at least one UE101 of request sending users. In another embodiment, the notificationmodule 305 may provide movement instructions, recommendations to atleast one suitable parking area, or a combination thereof. In a furtherembodiment, the notification module 305 may alert at least one guidinguser (e.g., pedestrian) to gesticulate at a specific time period (e.g.,an exact time when a request sending user is looking at the guidinguser).

In one embodiment, the communication module 307 enables formation of asession over a communication network 107 by implementing variousprotocols and data sharing techniques for enabling collaborativeexecution between the configuration platform 109 and the one or more UE101s. In one scenario, the communication module 307 may establish acommunication session between at least one request sending UE 101 and atleast one navigation guiding UE 101 detected within a close proximity ofat least one destination. In another scenario, the communication module307 may establish inter-vehicle communication session between at leastone request sending vehicles (e.g., autonomous vehicles, HAD, advanceddriver assistance systems (ADAS), etc.) and other vehicles detectedwithin close proximity of at least one destination for navigationalpurposes. The communication module 307 makes pedestrian to pedestrianinteraction, driver to driver interaction, vehicle to vehicleinteraction, and vehicle to pedestrian interaction feasible fornavigational purposes.

In one embodiment, the presentation module 309 obtains a set of summarystatistics from the other modules. Then, the presentation module 309continues with generating a presentation corresponding to the request ofthe at least one user. In one scenario, the presentation module 309 maycause a presentation of highlighted road segments for indicating atleast one destination, at least one parking area, at least one busy roadsegment, or a combination thereof. In another scenario, the presentationmodule 309 may cause a presentation of identification information for atleast one request sending vehicle (e.g., picture of the vehicle, modelnumber of the vehicle, color information, etc.). In a further scenario,the presentation module 309 may cause a presentation of identificationinformation for at least one navigation guiding user (e.g., pictures,distinguishable attires, etc.).

The above presented modules and components of the configuration platform109 can be implemented in hardware, firmware, software, or a combinationthereof. Though depicted as a separate entity in FIG. 1, it iscontemplated that the configuration platform 109 may be implemented fordirect operation by respective UE 101. As such, the configurationplatform 109 may generate direct signal inputs by way of the operatingsystem of the UE 101 for interacting with the applications 103. Inanother embodiment, one or more of the modules 301-309 may beimplemented for operation by respective UEs, as a configuration platform109, or combination thereof. Still further, the configuration platform109 may be integrated for direct operation with the services 115, suchas in the form of a widget or applet, in accordance with an informationand/or subscriber sharing arrangement. The various executions presentedherein contemplate any and all arrangements and models.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a process for transmission of navigationrequest to one or more devices proximate to a destination for navigationguidance, according to one embodiment. In one embodiment, theconfiguration platform 109 performs the process 400 and is implementedin, for instance, a chip set including a processor and a memory as shownin FIG. 12.

In step 401, the configuration platform 109 may determine at least onedestination associated with at least one first device, at least onefirst user associated with the at least one first device, or acombination thereof. As discussed, the last mile in an unfamiliar areais often the most difficult because routes towards a destination can beconfusing and finding parking spaces can be arduous. Hence, user maysend a navigation assistance request with destination/locationinformation whereupon the configuration platform 109 may determine thedestination/location associated with the request to detect proximatedevices for navigation guidance.

In step 403, the configuration platform 109 may determine at least onesecond device, at least one second user associated with the at least onesecond device, or a combination thereof within at least one proximitythreshold of the at least one destination/location. In one embodiment,one or more devices and/or vehicles may be synced and/or paired viacloud but pairing between the request sending device and the device of alocal helper may alternatively happen through local connectivity (e.g.,near-field communication) as the driver comes closer to the destination.In one scenario, the configuration platform 109 may select at least oneproximate device based, at least in part, on the proximity of therequest sending device from the at least one destination. In anotherscenario, the configuration platform 109 may select at least oneproximate device based, at least in part, on the unobstructedline-of-sight.

In step 405, the configuration platform 109 may cause, at least in part,a transmission of the at least one navigation assistance request fromthe at least one first device, that least one first user, or acombination thereof to the at least one second device, the at least onesecond user, or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, the at leastone navigation assistance request seeks, at least in part, navigationguidance information related to the at least one destination/location,at least one point of interest associated with the at least onedestination/location, or a combination thereof from the at least onesecond device, the at least one second user, or a combination thereof.The navigation guidance information includes, at least in part, an exactor specified location of the at least one destination, at least one mainentrance of the at least one destination, at least one parking locationassociated with the at least one destination, at least one area to avoidwhen arriving at or leaving the at least one destination, at least oneparking area to avoid at the at least one destination, one or morehighlighted route segments and/or its details, specification and/orproposal for a new destination/location or one or more route segments,or a combination thereof. In another embodiment, the at least onenavigation assistance request includes, at least in part, firstidentification information associated with the at least one firstdevice, the at least one first user, or a combination thereof. The firstidentification information includes descriptive text, one or moreimages, or a combination thereof of the at least one first device, theat least one first user, at least one first vehicle associated with theat least one first user, or a combination thereof. In a furtherembodiment, at least one response, i.e., the navigation guidanceinformation, to the at least one navigation assistance request includes,at least in part, second identification information associated with theat least one second device, the at least on second user, or acombination thereof. The second identification information includesdescriptive text, one or more images, or a combination thereof of the atleast one second device, the at least one second user, at least onesecond vehicle associated with the at least one first user, or acombination thereof. In one embodiment, the at least one navigationassistance request may be sent at the time when a first navigationinstruction request is received by the configuration platform 109 fromthe at least one first device or the least one first user, or acombination thereof. Alternatively, the at least one navigationassistance request may be sent by the at least one first device or theleast one first user, or a combination thereof. Alternatively, the atleast one navigation assistance request may be sent when the at leastone first device or the least one first user, or a combination thereof,is within a threshold distance from the destination/location.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a process for selecting at least one deviceand/or at least one user for navigation guidance from the one or moreproximate devices and/or users based on selection measures, according toone embodiment. In one embodiment, the configuration platform 109performs the process 500 and is implemented in, for instance, a chip setincluding a processor and a memory as shown in FIG. 12.

In step 501, the configuration platform 109 may cause, at least in part,an establishment of at least one communication session between the atleast one first device and the at least one second device. The at leastone communication session is for conveying the navigation guidanceinformation; for identifying the at least one first device, the at leastone first user, the at least one second device, the at least one seconduser, or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, the navigationguidance information is at least one shared mapping user interfaceincluding, at least in part, information annotated by the at least onefirst device, the at least one first user, the at least one seconddevice, the at least one second user, or a combination thereof. Inanother embodiment, the at least one communication session isestablished using local connectivity, wide area connectivity, or acombination thereof.

In step 503, the configuration platform 109 may determine one or morecandidate devices, one or more candidate users, or a combination thereofwithin the at least one proximity threshold within thedestination/location. In one scenario, when a user (e.g., a driver)makes a request for getting navigational support, e.g., the at least onenavigation assistance request, the configuration platform 109 initiateslooking for devices associated with at least one user and/or at leastone vehicle around the selected destination/location. The configurationplatform 109 may send notifications to the most relevant devices. In onescenario, relevancy can be sorted by proximity criterion, wherein adevice closest to the destination/location, and/or with an unobstructedline-of-sight, may be selected over other devices.

In step 505, the configuration platform 109 may cause, at least in part,a selection of the at least one second device, the at least one seconduser, or a combination thereof from among the one or more candidatedevices, the one or more candidate users, or a combination thereofbased, at least in part, on one or more selection criteria. In oneembodiment, the one or more selection criteria include, at least inpart, the proximity criterion, a previous experience criterion, an areafamiliarity criterion, or a combination thereof. In one scenario, when auser (e.g., a pedestrian) makes the request of getting navigationalsupport towards a destination/location, the configuration platform 109may detect devices associated with pedestrians and/or vehicles nearbythe destination. The configuration platform 109 may select one or moredevices based, at least in part, on the number of times a user hasassisted other users in the past, the familiarity of a user with thedestination area, or a combination thereof. Then, the configurationplatform 109 may send notifications to the most relevant devices.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a process for designating at least one deviceand/or at least one user as a navigation guide, according to oneembodiment. In one embodiment, the configuration platform 109 performsthe process 600 and is implemented in, for instance, a chip setincluding a processor and a memory as shown in FIG. 12.

In step 601, the configuration platform 109 may recursively send atleast one participation request to the one or more candidate devices,the one or more candidate users, or a combination thereof until at leastone of the one or more candidate devices, the one or more candidateusers, or a combination thereof accepts the at least one participationrequest. In one scenario, if at least one device associated with theselected pedestrian and/or vehicles accepts the navigation request, thenthe configuration platform 109 may stop sending notifications to one ormore devices of other pedestrians and vehicles proximate to the at leastone destination. In another scenario, if at least one selected deviceassociated with a pedestrian and/or a vehicle refuses the navigationrequest, the configuration platform 109 may continue to sendnotifications to one or more other devices associated with pedestriansand vehicles proximate to the at least one destination. The notificationmay be sent until at least one notified device accepts the navigationrequest. In one example embodiment, the one or more users consenting toguide a request sending user may receive monetary (e.g., credit points)and/or non-monetary (points to be assisted by other users in future)rewards.

In step 603, the configuration platform 109 may cause, at least in part,a designation of the at least one of the one or more candidate devices,the one or more candidate users, or a combination thereof that acceptsas the at least one second device, the at least one second user, or acombination thereof. In one scenario, if multiple users and/or vehiclesare available to provide navigational guidance to the request sendinguser (e.g., a driver), then the configuration platform 109 may enable arequest sending driver and/or other passengers in the vehicle to haveseveral channels of discussions open to deal with the questions andanswers.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a process for determining distance thresholdand line-of sight between one or more devices, according to oneembodiment. In one embodiment, the configuration platform 109 performsthe process 700 and is implemented in, for instance, a chip setincluding a processor and a memory as shown in FIG. 12.

In step 701, the configuration platform 109 may determine that the atleast one first device, the at least one first user, or a combinationthereof and the at least one second user, the at least one seconddevice, or a combination thereof are within at least one distancethreshold. In another embodiment, location information of the at leastone first device, the at least one first user, or a combination thereof,may be frequently sent/updated to the at least one second device, the atleast one second user, or a combination thereof, while the at least onefirst device, the at least one first user is moving/approaching thedestination/location. Additionally, location information of the selectedat least one second device, the at least one second user, or acombination thereof, maybe frequently sent/updated to the at least onefirst device, the at least one first user, or a combination thereof,while the at least one second device, the at least one second user ismoving. Additionally, the sent/updated location information may bedisplayed in the at least one first device and/or the at least onesecond device. Further, the configuration platform 109 may beimplemented in the at least one first device and/or the at least onesecond device.

In step 703, the configuration platform 109 may process and/orfacilitate a processing of location information of the at least onefirst device, the at least one first user, the at least one seconddevice, the at least one second user, mapping information, or acombination thereof to generate at least one line-of-sight indicationfor identifying the at least one first device, the at least one firstuser, the at least one second device, the at least one second user, or acombination thereof to each other. In one scenario, a line-of-sightindication may be prompted at at least one second device when therequest sending user is looking at the navigation guiding user. Forexample, the configuration platform 109 may take into considerationwindshield reflections while determining a clear line-of-sight. Inanother scenario, a line-of-sight indication may be prompted at at leastone second device when the request sending user is looking at his/her UE101. In an alternative scenario, the line-of-sight indication may beprompted at the display of the at least one second and/or first devices,when the devices are within a threshold distance from each other and/orthe unobstructed line-of-sight is detected between the devices.Additionally, the line-of-sight information can be presented on a mappresentation and/or augmented reality presentation of the at least onesecond or first device. Further, the line-of-sight information can be anarrow, or similar, presented on the display of the respective first orsecond device, indication of a direction of a sight towards therespective first or second device. Alternatively, the line-of-sightinformation can be a line drawn between the positions of the respectivefirst or second device. Further, a line can be drawn between thelocation of the second device and the destination/location, and bedisplayed in the first device. The display can be a head-up display(HUD), embedded dashboard display, or user device display. Additionally,the line-of-sight information can be a voice command/prompt indicatingthe location and/or direction of the at least one respective second orfirst device, and/or second or first user. This voice command/prompt canbe presented additionally to a navigation voice command/prompt.

FIG. 8 represents a scenario wherein UE 101 associated with at least onedriver and/or at least one vehicle is connected with the UE 101 of thenearby users (e.g., pedestrians) for navigational support, according toone example embodiment. In one scenario, the user of at least onevehicle 801 is driving towards destination B 116. The user notices thatan area 803 nearby destination B 116 is under construction and isobstructing his/her line-of-sight. Such obstruction makes it difficultfor the user to find the destination B 116. As a result, the user mayactivate the local support feature in his/her UE 101, whereupon the UE101 of the user is connected with the UE 101 of the other users 805 and809 proximate to the destination B 116. Then, the users of at least onevehicle 801 may send request via his/her UE 101 to other users 805 and809 for navigational support towards destination B 116. The at least oneuser 805 amongst the other users may agree to support the user of atleast one vehicle 801. The request sent by the user of at least onevehicle 801 may include specific requests (e.g., “Help me finddestination B 116”), identification information of the at least onevehicle 801 (e.g., picture of the vehicle, model number of the vehicle,color information, etc.), or a combination thereof. Similarly, the atleast one other user 805 may share his/her location information (e.g.,position information), identification information (e.g., pictures, anyrecognizable item he/she is wearing or carrying (e.g., colorful jackets,caps, umbrella, etc.), connected wearable devices, etc.). Subsequently,the user of at least one vehicle 801 may slow down upon identifying theat least one other user 805, whereupon at least one other user 805 mayassist the user towards destination B 116 via gesture or any other meansof communication (e.g., laser display, voice commands, etc.). Then, theuser of at least one vehicle 801 may drive towards the indicateddirection to reach the destination B 116. However, the driver of atleast one vehicle 801 also needs to park his/her vehicle, and thelikelihood of the parking location being blocked by the construction isvery high. As a result, the user of at least one vehicle 801 may send aparking request to other users 807 and 811 proximate to the parkinglocation. The parking request may include identification information(e.g., vehicle specifications), temporal information (e.g., time periodfor parking the vehicle) etc. Then, at least one user 807 amongst theother users may agree to assist the user of at least one vehicle 801 infinding a suitable parking space. In one scenario, the at least one user807 may highlight on his UE 101 a street which is usually not toocrowded and has free parking. Then, the at least one user 807 maytransfer this information to the UE 101 of the user of at least onevehicle 801. Such local guidance can provide dynamic and accurateinformation about the availability of parking spaces. In one scenario,since multiple users are ready to support the user of at least onevehicle 801, the user of at least one vehicle 801 alongside thepassenger may have several channels of discussion open to deal with thequestions.

FIG. 9 is a user interface diagram that represents a scenario whereinlocal navigation assistance is provided via at least one UE 101 of auser proximate to a destination, according to one example embodiment. Inone scenario, the user of at least one vehicle need not meet the atleast one other user providing navigational guidance. The at least oneother user providing navigational guidance may highlight street 901 inhis/her UE 101 that is usually not too crowded and has free parking.This information may be transmitted and displayed in the UE 101 of theuser of at least one vehicle, wherein the street 905 with free parkingmay be highlighted with a message notification. In addition, at leastone other user providing navigational guidance may highlight street 903that should be avoided because of heavy traffic. This information may betransmitted and displayed in the UE 101 of the user of at least onevehicle, wherein the street 907 is highlighted with a messagenotification. As a result, the user of at least one vehicle can avoidstreet 907 and save time while reaching his/her destination.

FIG. 10 represents a scenario wherein notifications are sent to the mostrelevant users from a group of users, according to one exampleembodiment. In one scenario, the configuration platform 109 may selectone or more users based, at least in part, on proximity information,user's knowledge regarding the area, number of times the user has helpedin the past, or a combination thereof. In one example embodiment, when adriver 1001 makes a request for navigational support towards a parkinglocation, the configuration platform 109 may search for users around theparking area. The configuration platform 109 may find multiple users1003, 1005, 1007, 1009 nearby the parking location, and may forward therequest to the most relevant users. The configuration platform 109 mayselect user 1003 because he/she is closest to the parking area and has aclear line-of-sight. On the other hand, the configuration platform 109may also select user 1005 because he/she has very good knowledge of thearea. In addition, the configuration platform 109 may also select user1007 because he/she has assisted several other users in the past.Subsequently, the configuration platform 109 may forward thenavigational requests to the selected users 1003, 1005 and 1007. Oncethe selected users accept the request, the configuration platform 109may stop sending notifications to the remaining users. However, if theselected users reject the request, the configuration platform 109 maycontinue sending notifications to the remaining users until somethreshold of proximity or relevance is reached.

The processes described herein for connecting at least one first devicewith at least one second device proximate to at least one destinationfor navigation guidance may be advantageously implemented via software,hardware, firmware or a combination of software and/or firmware and/orhardware. For example, the processes described herein, may beadvantageously implemented via processor(s), Digital Signal Processing(DSP) chip, an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), FieldProgrammable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), etc. Such exemplary hardware forperforming the described functions is detailed below.

FIG. 11 illustrates a computer system 1100 upon which an embodiment ofthe invention may be implemented. Although computer system 1100 isdepicted with respect to a particular device or equipment, it iscontemplated that other devices or equipment (e.g., network elements,servers, etc.) within FIG. 11 can deploy the illustrated hardware andcomponents of system 1100. Computer system 1100 is programmed (e.g., viacomputer program code or instructions) to connect at least one firstdevice with at least one second device proximate to at least onedestination for navigation guidance as described herein and includes acommunication mechanism such as a bus 1110 for passing informationbetween other internal and external components of the computer system1100. Information (also called data) is represented as a physicalexpression of a measurable phenomenon, typically electric voltages, butincluding, in other embodiments, such phenomena as magnetic,electromagnetic, pressure, chemical, biological, molecular, atomic,sub-atomic and quantum interactions. For example, north and southmagnetic fields, or a zero and non-zero electric voltage, represent twostates (0, 1) of a binary digit (bit). Other phenomena can representdigits of a higher base. A superposition of multiple simultaneousquantum states before measurement represents a quantum bit (qubit). Asequence of one or more digits constitutes digital data that is used torepresent a number or code for a character. In some embodiments,information called analog data is represented by a near continuum ofmeasurable values within a particular range. Computer system 1100, or aportion thereof, constitutes a means for performing one or more steps ofconnecting at least one first device with at least one second deviceproximate to at least one destination for navigation guidance.

A bus 1110 includes one or more parallel conductors of information sothat information is transferred quickly among devices coupled to the bus1110. One or more processors 1102 for processing information are coupledwith the bus 1110.

A processor (or multiple processors) 1102 performs a set of operationson information as specified by computer program code related to connectat least one first device with at least one second device proximate toat least one destination for navigation guidance. The computer programcode is a set of instructions or statements providing instructions forthe operation of the processor and/or the computer system to performspecified functions. The code, for example, may be written in a computerprogramming language that is compiled into a native instruction set ofthe processor. The code may also be written directly using the nativeinstruction set (e.g., machine language). The set of operations includebringing information in from the bus 1110 and placing information on thebus 1110. The set of operations also typically include comparing two ormore units of information, shifting positions of units of information,and combining two or more units of information, such as by addition ormultiplication or logical operations like OR, exclusive OR (XOR), andAND. Each operation of the set of operations that can be performed bythe processor is represented to the processor by information calledinstructions, such as an operation code of one or more digits. Asequence of operations to be executed by the processor 1102, such as asequence of operation codes, constitute processor instructions, alsocalled computer system instructions or, simply, computer instructions.Processors may be implemented as mechanical, electrical, magnetic,optical, chemical, or quantum components, among others, alone or incombination.

Computer system 1100 also includes a memory 1104 coupled to bus 1110.The memory 1104, such as a random access memory (RAM) or any otherdynamic storage device, stores information including processorinstructions for connecting at least one first device with at least onesecond device proximate to at least one destination for navigationguidance. Dynamic memory allows information stored therein to be changedby the computer system 1100. RAM allows a unit of information stored ata location called a memory address to be stored and retrievedindependently of information at neighboring addresses. The memory 1104is also used by the processor 1102 to store temporary values duringexecution of processor instructions. The computer system 1100 alsoincludes a read only memory (ROM) 1106 or any other static storagedevice coupled to the bus 1110 for storing static information, includinginstructions, that is not changed by the computer system 1100. Somememory is composed of volatile storage that loses the information storedthereon when power is lost. Also coupled to bus 1110 is a non-volatile(persistent) storage device 1108, such as a magnetic disk, optical diskor flash card, for storing information, including instructions, thatpersists even when the computer system 1100 is turned off or otherwiseloses power.

Information, including instructions for connecting at least one firstdevice with at least one second device proximate to at least onedestination for navigation guidance, is provided to the bus 1110 for useby the processor from an external input device 1112, such as a keyboardcontaining alphanumeric keys operated by a human user, a microphone, anInfrared (IR) remote control, a joystick, a game pad, a stylus pen, atouch screen, or a sensor. A sensor detects conditions in its vicinityand transforms those detections into physical expression compatible withthe measurable phenomenon used to represent information in computersystem 1100. Other external devices coupled to bus 1110, used primarilyfor interacting with humans, include a display device 1114, such as acathode ray tube (CRT), a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emittingdiode (LED) display, an organic LED (OLED) display, a plasma screen, ora printer for presenting text or images, and a pointing device 1116,such as a mouse, a trackball, cursor direction keys, or a motion sensor,for controlling a position of a small cursor image presented on thedisplay 1114 and issuing commands associated with graphical elementspresented on the display 1114, and one or more camera sensors 1194 forcapturing, recording and causing to store one or more still and/ormoving images (e.g., videos, movies, etc.) which also may comprise audiorecordings. In some embodiments, for example, in embodiments in whichthe computer system 1100 performs all functions automatically withouthuman input, one or more of external input device 1112, display device1114 and pointing device 1116 may be omitted.

In the illustrated embodiment, special purpose hardware, such as anapplication specific integrated circuit (ASIC) 1120, is coupled to bus1110. The special purpose hardware is configured to perform operationsnot performed by processor 1102 quickly enough for special purposes.Examples of ASICs include graphics accelerator cards for generatingimages for display 1114, cryptographic boards for encrypting anddecrypting messages sent over a network, speech recognition, andinterfaces to special external devices, such as robotic arms and medicalscanning equipment that repeatedly perform some complex sequence ofoperations that are more efficiently implemented in hardware.

Computer system 1100 also includes one or more instances of acommunications interface 1170 coupled to bus 1110. Communicationinterface 1170 provides a one-way or two-way communication coupling to avariety of external devices that operate with their own processors, suchas printers, scanners and external disks. In general the coupling iswith a network link 1178 that is connected to a local network 1180 towhich a variety of external devices with their own processors areconnected. For example, communication interface 1170 may be a parallelport or a serial port or a universal serial bus (USB) port on a personalcomputer. In some embodiments, communications interface 1170 is anintegrated services digital network (ISDN) card or a digital subscriberline (DSL) card or a telephone modem that provides an informationcommunication connection to a corresponding type of telephone line. Insome embodiments, a communication interface 1170 is a cable modem thatconverts signals on bus 1110 into signals for a communication connectionover a coaxial cable or into optical signals for a communicationconnection over a fiber optic cable. As another example, communicationsinterface 1170 may be a local area network (LAN) card to provide a datacommunication connection to a compatible LAN, such as Ethernet. Wirelesslinks may also be implemented. For wireless links, the communicationsinterface 1170 sends or receives or both sends and receives electrical,acoustic or electromagnetic signals, including infrared and opticalsignals, that carry information streams, such as digital data. Forexample, in wireless handheld devices, such as mobile telephones likecell phones, the communications interface 1170 includes a radio bandelectromagnetic transmitter and receiver called a radio transceiver. Incertain embodiments, the communications interface 1170 enablesconnection to the communication network 107 for connecting at least onefirst device with at least one second device proximate to at least onedestination for navigation guidance to the UE 101.

The term “computer-readable medium” as used herein refers to any mediumthat participates in providing information to processor 1102, includinginstructions for execution. Such a medium may take many forms,including, but not limited to computer-readable storage medium (e.g.,non-volatile media, volatile media), and transmission media.Non-transitory media, such as non-volatile media, include, for example,optical or magnetic disks, such as storage device 1108. Volatile mediainclude, for example, dynamic memory 1104. Transmission media include,for example, twisted pair cables, coaxial cables, copper wire, fiberoptic cables, and carrier waves that travel through space without wiresor cables, such as acoustic waves and electromagnetic waves, includingradio, optical and infrared waves. Signals include man-made transientvariations in amplitude, frequency, phase, polarization or otherphysical properties transmitted through the transmission media. Commonforms of computer-readable media include, for example, a floppy disk, aflexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, aCD-ROM, CDRW, DVD, any other optical medium, punch cards, paper tape,optical mark sheets, any other physical medium with patterns of holes orother optically recognizable indicia, a RAM, a PROM, an EPROM, aFLASH-EPROM, an EEPROM, a flash memory, any other memory chip orcartridge, a carrier wave, or any other medium from which a computer canread. The term computer-readable storage medium is used herein to referto any computer-readable medium except transmission media.

Logic encoded in one or more tangible media includes one or both ofprocessor instructions on a computer-readable storage media and specialpurpose hardware, such as ASIC 1120.

Network link 1178 typically provides information communication usingtransmission media through one or more networks to other devices thatuse or process the information. For example, network link 1178 mayprovide a connection through local network 1180 to a host computer 1182or to equipment 1184 operated by an Internet Service Provider (ISP). ISPequipment 1184 in turn provides data communication services through thepublic, world-wide packet-switching communication network of networksnow commonly referred to as the Internet 1190.

A computer called a server host 1192 connected to the Internet hosts aprocess that provides a service in response to information received overthe Internet. For example, server host 1192 hosts a process thatprovides information representing video data for presentation at display1114. It is contemplated that the components of system 1100 can bedeployed in various configurations within other computer systems, e.g.,host 1182 and server 1192.

At least some embodiments of the invention are related to the use ofcomputer system 1100 for implementing some or all of the techniquesdescribed herein. According to one embodiment of the invention, thosetechniques are performed by computer system 1100 in response toprocessor 1102 executing one or more sequences of one or more processorinstructions contained in memory 1104. Such instructions, also calledcomputer instructions, software and program code, may be read intomemory 1104 from another computer-readable medium such as storage device1108 or network link 1178. Execution of the sequences of instructionscontained in memory 1104 causes processor 1102 to perform one or more ofthe method steps described herein. In alternative embodiments, hardware,such as ASIC 1120, may be used in place of or in combination withsoftware to implement the invention. Thus, embodiments of the inventionare not limited to any specific combination of hardware and software,unless otherwise explicitly stated herein.

The signals transmitted over network link 1178 and other networksthrough communications interface 1170, carry information to and fromcomputer system 1100. Computer system 1100 can send and receiveinformation, including program code, through the networks 1180, 1190among others, through network link 1178 and communications interface1170. In an example using the Internet 1190, a server host 1192transmits program code for a particular application, requested by amessage sent from computer 1100, through Internet 1190, ISP equipment1184, local network 1180 and communications interface 1170. The receivedcode may be executed by processor 1102 as it is received, or may bestored in memory 1104 or in storage device 1108 or any othernon-volatile storage for later execution, or both. In this manner,computer system 1100 may obtain application program code in the form ofsignals on a carrier wave.

Various forms of computer readable media may be involved in carrying oneor more sequence of instructions or data or both to processor 1102 forexecution. For example, instructions and data may initially be carriedon a magnetic disk of a remote computer such as host 1182. The remotecomputer loads the instructions and data into its dynamic memory andsends the instructions and data over a telephone line using a modem. Amodem local to the computer system 1100 receives the instructions anddata on a telephone line and uses an infra-red transmitter to convertthe instructions and data to a signal on an infra-red carrier waveserving as the network link 1178. An infrared detector serving ascommunications interface 1170 receives the instructions and data carriedin the infrared signal and places information representing theinstructions and data onto bus 1110. Bus 1110 carries the information tomemory 1104 from which processor 1102 retrieves and executes theinstructions using some of the data sent with the instructions. Theinstructions and data received in memory 1104 may optionally be storedon storage device 1108, either before or after execution by theprocessor 1102.

FIG. 12 illustrates a chip set or chip 1200 upon which an embodiment ofthe invention may be implemented. Chip set 1200 is programmed to connectat least one first device with at least one second device proximate toat least one destination for navigation guidance as described herein andincludes, for instance, the processor and memory components describedwith respect to FIG. 11 incorporated in one or more physical packages(e.g., chips). By way of example, a physical package includes anarrangement of one or more materials, components, and/or wires on astructural assembly (e.g., a baseboard) to provide one or morecharacteristics such as physical strength, conservation of size, and/orlimitation of electrical interaction. It is contemplated that in certainembodiments the chip set 1200 can be implemented in a single chip. It isfurther contemplated that in certain embodiments the chip set or chip1200 can be implemented as a single “system on a chip.” It is furthercontemplated that in certain embodiments a separate ASIC would not beused, for example, and that all relevant functions as disclosed hereinwould be performed by a processor or processors. Chip set or chip 1200,or a portion thereof, constitutes a means for performing one or moresteps of providing user interface navigation information associated withthe availability of functions. Chip set or chip 1200, or a portionthereof, constitutes a means for performing one or more steps ofconnecting at least one first device with at least one second deviceproximate to at least one destination for navigation guidance.

In one embodiment, the chip set or chip 1200 includes a communicationmechanism such as a bus 1201 for passing information among thecomponents of the chip set 1200. A processor 1203 has connectivity tothe bus 1201 to execute instructions and process information stored in,for example, a memory 1205. The processor 1203 may include one or moreprocessing cores with each core configured to perform independently. Amulti-core processor enables multiprocessing within a single physicalpackage. Examples of a multi-core processor include two, four, eight, orgreater numbers of processing cores. Alternatively or in addition, theprocessor 1203 may include one or more microprocessors configured intandem via the bus 1201 to enable independent execution of instructions,pipelining, and multithreading. The processor 1203 may also beaccompanied with one or more specialized components to perform certainprocessing functions and tasks such as one or more digital signalprocessors (DSP) 1207, or one or more application-specific integratedcircuits (ASIC) 1209. A DSP 1207 typically is configured to processreal-world signals (e.g., sound) in real time independently of theprocessor 1203. Similarly, an ASIC 1209 can be configured to performedspecialized functions not easily performed by a more general purposeprocessor. Other specialized components to aid in performing theinventive functions described herein may include one or more fieldprogrammable gate arrays (FPGA), one or more controllers, or one or moreother special-purpose computer chips.

In one embodiment, the chip set or chip 1200 includes merely one or moreprocessors and some software and/or firmware supporting and/or relatingto and/or for the one or more processors.

The processor 1203 and accompanying components have connectivity to thememory 1205 via the bus 1201. The memory 1205 includes both dynamicmemory (e.g., RAM, magnetic disk, writable optical disk, etc.) andstatic memory (e.g., ROM, CD-ROM, etc.) for storing executableinstructions that when executed perform the inventive steps describedherein to connect at least one first device with at least one seconddevice proximate to at least one destination for navigation guidance.The memory 1205 also stores the data associated with or generated by theexecution of the inventive steps.

FIG. 13 is a diagram of exemplary components of a mobile terminal (e.g.,handset) for communications, which is capable of operating in the systemof FIG. 1, according to one embodiment. In some embodiments, mobileterminal 1301, or a portion thereof, constitutes a means for performingone or more steps of connecting at least one first device with at leastone second device proximate to at least one destination for navigationguidance. Generally, a radio receiver is often defined in terms offront-end and back-end characteristics. The front-end of the receiverencompasses all of the Radio Frequency (RF) circuitry whereas theback-end encompasses all of the base-band processing circuitry. As usedin this application, the term “circuitry” refers to both: (1)hardware-only implementations (such as implementations in only analogand/or digital circuitry), and (2) to combinations of circuitry andsoftware (and/or firmware) (such as, if applicable to the particularcontext, to a combination of processor(s), including digital signalprocessor(s), software, and memory(ies) that work together to cause anapparatus, such as a mobile phone or server, to perform variousfunctions). This definition of “circuitry” applies to all uses of thisterm in this application, including in any claims. As a further example,as used in this application and if applicable to the particular context,the term “circuitry” would also cover an implementation of merely aprocessor (or multiple processors) and its (or their) accompanyingsoftware/or firmware. The term “circuitry” would also cover ifapplicable to the particular context, for example, a baseband integratedcircuit or applications processor integrated circuit in a mobile phoneor a similar integrated circuit in a cellular network device or othernetwork devices.

Pertinent internal components of the telephone include a Main ControlUnit (MCU) 1303, a Digital Signal Processor (DSP) 1305, and areceiver/transmitter unit including a microphone gain control unit and aspeaker gain control unit. A main display unit 1307 provides a displayto the user in support of various applications and mobile terminalfunctions that perform or support the steps of connecting at least onefirst device with at least one second device proximate to at least onedestination for navigation guidance. The display 1307 includes displaycircuitry configured to display at least a portion of a user interfaceof the mobile terminal (e.g., mobile telephone). Additionally, thedisplay 1307 and display circuitry are configured to facilitate usercontrol of at least some functions of the mobile terminal. An audiofunction circuitry 1309 includes a microphone 1311 and microphoneamplifier that amplifies the speech signal output from the microphone1311. The amplified speech signal output from the microphone 1311 is fedto a coder/decoder (CODEC) 1313.

A radio section 1315 amplifies power and converts frequency in order tocommunicate with a base station, which is included in a mobilecommunication system, via antenna 1317. The power amplifier (PA) 1319and the transmitter/modulation circuitry are operationally responsive tothe MCU 1303, with an output from the PA 1319 coupled to the duplexer1321 or circulator or antenna switch, as known in the art. The PA 1319also couples to a battery interface and power control unit 1320.

In use, a user of mobile terminal 1301 speaks into the microphone 1311and his or her voice along with any detected background noise isconverted into an analog voltage. The analog voltage is then convertedinto a digital signal through the Analog to Digital Converter (ADC)1323. The control unit 1303 routes the digital signal into the DSP 1305for processing therein, such as speech encoding, channel encoding,encrypting, and interleaving. In one embodiment, the processed voicesignals are encoded, by units not separately shown, using a cellulartransmission protocol such as enhanced data rates for global evolution(EDGE), general packet radio service (GPRS), global system for mobilecommunications (GSM), Internet protocol multimedia subsystem (IMS),universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS), etc., as well as anyother suitable wireless medium, e.g., microwave access (WiMAX), LongTerm Evolution (LTE) networks, code division multiple access (CDMA),wideband code division multiple access (WCDMA), wireless fidelity(WiFi), satellite, and the like, or any combination thereof.

The encoded signals are then routed to an equalizer 1325 forcompensation of any frequency-dependent impairments that occur duringtransmission though the air such as phase and amplitude distortion.After equalizing the bit stream, the modulator 1327 combines the signalwith a RF signal generated in the RF interface 1329. The modulator 1327generates a sine wave by way of frequency or phase modulation. In orderto prepare the signal for transmission, an up-converter 1331 combinesthe sine wave output from the modulator 1327 with another sine wavegenerated by a synthesizer 1333 to achieve the desired frequency oftransmission. The signal is then sent through a PA 1319 to increase thesignal to an appropriate power level. In practical systems, the PA 1319acts as a variable gain amplifier whose gain is controlled by the DSP1305 from information received from a network base station. The signalis then filtered within the duplexer 1321 and optionally sent to anantenna coupler 1335 to match impedances to provide maximum powertransfer. Finally, the signal is transmitted via antenna 1317 to a localbase station. An automatic gain control (AGC) can be supplied to controlthe gain of the final stages of the receiver. The signals may beforwarded from there to a remote telephone which may be another cellulartelephone, any other mobile phone or a land-line connected to a PublicSwitched Telephone Network (PSTN), or other telephony networks.

Voice signals transmitted to the mobile terminal 1301 are received viaantenna 1317 and immediately amplified by a low noise amplifier (LNA)1337. A down-converter 1339 lowers the carrier frequency while thedemodulator 1341 strips away the RF leaving only a digital bit stream.The signal then goes through the equalizer 1325 and is processed by theDSP 1305. A Digital to Analog Converter (DAC) 1343 converts the signaland the resulting output is transmitted to the user through the speaker1345, all under control of a Main Control Unit (MCU) 1303 which can beimplemented as a Central Processing Unit (CPU).

The MCU 1303 receives various signals including input signals from thekeyboard 1347. The keyboard 1347 and/or the MCU 1303 in combination withother user input components (e.g., the microphone 1311) comprise a userinterface circuitry for managing user input. The MCU 1303 runs a userinterface software to facilitate user control of at least some functionsof the mobile terminal 1301 to connect at least one first device with atleast one second device proximate to at least one destination fornavigation guidance. The MCU 1303 also delivers a display command and aswitch command to the display 1307 and to the speech output switchingcontroller, respectively. Further, the MCU 1303 exchanges informationwith the DSP 1305 and can access an optionally incorporated SIM card1349 and a memory 1351. In addition, the MCU 1303 executes variouscontrol functions required of the terminal. The DSP 1305 may, dependingupon the implementation, perform any of a variety of conventionaldigital processing functions on the voice signals. Additionally, DSP1305 determines the background noise level of the local environment fromthe signals detected by microphone 1311 and sets the gain of microphone1311 to a level selected to compensate for the natural tendency of theuser of the mobile terminal 1301.

The CODEC 1313 includes the ADC 1323 and DAC 1343. The memory 1351stores various data including call incoming tone data and is capable ofstoring other data including music data received via, e.g., the globalInternet. The software module could reside in RAM memory, flash memory,registers, or any other form of writable storage medium known in theart. The memory device 1351 may be, but not limited to, a single memory,CD, DVD, ROM, RAM, EEPROM, optical storage, magnetic disk storage, flashmemory storage, or any other non-volatile storage medium capable ofstoring digital data.

An optionally incorporated SIM card 1349 carries, for instance,important information, such as the cellular phone number, the carriersupplying service, subscription details, and security information. TheSIM card 1349 serves primarily to identify the mobile terminal 1301 on aradio network. The card 1349 also contains a memory for storing apersonal telephone number registry, text messages, and user specificmobile terminal settings.

Further, one or more camera sensors 1353 may be incorporated onto themobile station 1301 wherein the one or more camera sensors may be placedat one or more locations on the mobile station. Generally, the camerasensors may be utilized to capture, record, and cause to store one ormore still and/or moving images (e.g., videos, movies, etc.) which alsomay comprise audio recordings.

While the invention has been described in connection with a number ofembodiments and implementations, the invention is not so limited butcovers various obvious modifications and equivalent arrangements, whichfall within the purview of the appended claims. Although features of theinvention are expressed in certain combinations among the claims, it iscontemplated that these features can be arranged in any combination andorder.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of connecting a first device associated with a first user with a second device associated with a second user that is proximate to a destination, for navigation guidance, comprising: receiving at an configuration server a navigation assistance request from the first device sent over a communication network, the navigation assistance request including destination information of the destination, the configuration server comprising a processor and a memory, wherein the processor: determines the second user associated with the second device based on the second user being within a proximity threshold of the destination; transmits the navigation assistance request from the first device to the second device associated with the second user; and causes display of navigation guidance information related to the destination provided by the second user at a display of the first device associated with the first user who seeks the navigational guidance information, wherein the second user is a pedestrian, and wherein the navigation guidance information related to the destination that the first user seeks includes a main entrance associated with the destination, a parking location associated with the destination, an area to avoid when arriving at or leaving the destination, and a parking area to avoid at the destination.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the navigation assistance request further includes first identification information associated with at least one of the first user and the first device, and wherein the first identification information includes at least one of (i) descriptive text and (ii) at least one image of at least one of the first device, the first user, and a vehicle associated with the first user.
 3. The method of claim 2, wherein a response to the navigation assistance request includes second identification information associated with at least one of the second device and the second user; and wherein the second identification information includes at least one of (i) descriptive text and (ii) at least one image of at least one of the second device and the second user.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the processor further establishes at least one communication session between the first device and the second device, wherein the at least one communication session is for conveying the navigation guidance information for identifying at least one of the first device, the first user, the second device, and the second user.
 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the navigation guidance information comprises a shared mapping user interface including information annotated by the at least one of the first device, the first user, the second device, and the second user.
 6. The method of claim 4, wherein the at least one communication session is established using at least one of local connectivity and wide area connectivity.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the processor further: determines at least one of (i) at least one respective candidate device and (ii) at least one respective candidate user within the at least one proximity threshold; and selects at least one of the second device and the second user from among the at least one of (i) at least one respective candidate device and (ii) at least one respective candidate user based on at least one selection criteria, wherein the at least one selection criteria include at least one of a proximity criterion, a previous experience criterion, and an area familiarity criterion.
 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the processor further: recursively sends a participation request to at least one of the (i) at least one respective candidate device and the (ii) at least one respective candidate user until at least one of the (i) at least one respective candidate device and the (ii) at least one respective candidate user accepts the participation request; and designates as the second device at least one respective candidate device that accepts the participation request.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the processor further: determines that (i) at least one of the first device and the first user, and (ii) at least one of the second device and the second user are within at least one distance threshold; and processes at least one of location information and mapping information, to generate a line-of-sight indication for identifying at least one of the first device, the first user, the second device, and the second user.
 10. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium carrying one or more sequences of one or more instructions stored thereon executed by a processor to perform a method of connecting a first device associated with a first user with a second device associated with a second user that is proximate to a destination, for navigation guidance, the method comprising: receiving a navigation assistance request from the first device sent over a communication network, the navigation assistance request including destination information of the destination; determining the second user associated with the second device based on the second user being within a proximity threshold of the destination; transmitting the navigation assistance request from the first device to the second device associated with the second user; and displaying navigation guidance information related to the destination provided by the second user at a display of the first device associated with the first user who seeks the navigational guidance information, wherein the second user is a pedestrian, and wherein the navigation guidance information related to the destination that the first user seeks includes a main entrance associated with the destination, a parking location associated with the destination, an area to avoid when arriving at or leaving the destination, and a parking area to avoid at the destination.
 11. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 10, wherein the navigation assistance request further includes first identification information associated with at least one of the first user and the first device, and wherein the first identification information includes at least one of (i) descriptive text and (ii) at least one image of at least of the first device, the first user, and a vehicle associated with the first user.
 12. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 11, wherein a response to the navigation assistance request includes second identification information associated with at least one of the second device and the second user; and wherein the second identification information includes at least one of (i) descriptive text and (ii) at least one image of at least of the second device and the second user.
 13. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim of claim 10, wherein the method further comprises: establishing at least one communication session between the first device and the second device, wherein the at least one communication session is for conveying the navigation guidance information for identifying at least one of the first device, the first user, the second device, and the second user.
 14. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 13, wherein the navigation guidance information comprises a shared mapping user interface including information annotated by the at least one of the first device, the first user, the second device, and the second user.
 15. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 13, wherein the at least one communication session is established using at least one of local connectivity and wide area connectivity.
 16. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim of claim 10, wherein the method further comprises: determining at least one of (i) at least one respective candidate device and (ii) at least one respective candidate user within the at least one proximity threshold; and selecting at least one of the second device and the second user from among the at least one of (i) at least one respective candidate device and (ii) at least one respective candidate user based on one or more selection criteria, wherein the at least one selection criteria include at least one of a proximity criterion, a previous experience criterion, and an area familiarity criterion.
 17. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 16, wherein the method further comprises: recursively sending a participation request to at least one of the (i) at least one respective candidate device and the (ii) at least one respective candidate user until at least one of the (i) at least one respective candidate device and the (ii) at least one respective candidate user accepts the participation request; and designating as the second device at least one respective candidate device that accepts the participation request.
 18. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 10, wherein the method further comprises: determining that (i) at least one of the first device and the first user, and (ii) at least one of the second device and the second user are within at least one distance threshold; and processing at least one of location information and mapping information, to generate a line-of-sight indication for identifying at least one of the first device, the first user, the second device, and the second user. 